Plan Your Trip

We are located at 1504 Skyline Drive, just off U.S. Route 285  at the northern edge of Carlsbad, New Mexico.  The zoo is 3,200 feet atop the Ocotillo Hills overlooking the city and the Pecos River. 

Hours

The zoo is open every day except Christmas Day. 

The zoo is open from  9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.  Last entrance into the zoo is at 3:30 PM.

Admission Fees

• Adult (13 and older)…………..................…$5.00
• Children (7 – 12 years)…….….....................$3.00
• Children (6 and under)…….…....................Free
• Group Rates (20 or more)…….....................$3.00 per person (Reservations appreciated)
• Youth Education Groups……..................….$0.50 per person (Reservations appreciated) 
• Friends of the Living Desert Members…...…Free (with membership)
• AZA members from other zoos who have a reciprocal agreement with our Zoo will receive free or half price admission. Please check with your organization.

• We recommend having good walking shoes, a hat, water, and sunblock for touring the park.  
• In the summer, temperatures can exceed 100 degrees, so we recommend visiting the park early in the day. 
• Although there are drinking fountains located throughout the park, it is advised that visitors carry water with them.  You may purchase water at the park or bring in your own bottle.
• Electric mobility scooters are available to rent for $5.00 each. (subject to availability) 
• Strollers are available free of charge. (subject to availability)

• Only service animals are permitted in the Zoo. We do not have kennels. 
• Please do not leave pets in your vehicle, especially when it is hot.
• Smoking is not permitted in the zoo.

• Snack and drink vending machines are located in the Visitor Center.
• Drinks and ice cream are available in the gift shop.
• Zoo visitors may use the picnic tables located in the park near the Visitor Center.
• School groups planning to eat at the zoo should reserve the picnic tables beforehand.
• Restaurants are located within a few miles of the zoo.